Dreaming of a sumptuous, summer wedding? There may be a chill in the air, but for couples planning their big day, now’s the season to step out and visit venues at this weekend's open days.

PENSHURST PLACE

Banqueting rooms bulging with character – including a Baron’s Hall which can even come by candlelight – are on offer for couples at Penshurst Place.

The venue’s wedding open day, on Saturday, January 13, gives couples the chance to discover what makes the 14th century stately home unique.

Visitors will be able to see the private inner courtyard, not normally seen by the public, the Grade I listed Tudor gardens, which make a perfect backdrop for pictures. There will be complimentary prosecco and canapes and wedding specialists and co-ordinators will be on hand to give advice.

The day also marks the official launch of new wedding packages.

To reserve your place, call 01892 870307 or email banqueting@penshurstplace.com.

LEEDS CASTLE, MAIDSTONE

Leeds Castle holds its wedding showcase on Saturday, January 13 and Sunday, January 14.
Couples will be able to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and view the castle dressed for a wedding day.

Appointments will be available on either of the two days from 10am to 5pm. You must book by calling 01622 767877. You can also complete an enquiry form at leeds-castle.com/Weddings.

WINTERS BARNS, CANTERBURY

Canterbury’s Winters Barns holds its first open day of the year on Sunday, January 14 between 10am and 3pm, when the barns will be dressed by the venue stylists. To register to see the barns in Nackington Road, Canterbury, CT4 7AY, visit winters-barns.co.uk/open-days/.

CHILSTON PARK, LENHAM

Seventeenth century Chilston Park Hotel in Sandway, Lenham, holds two wedding open days this month. The first at the 23-acre site, is on Sunday, January 14 between 1pm and 4pm. There will be another on Sunday, January 28 at the same time.

To register and find dates throughout the year, visit Register at handpickedhotels.co.uk/chilstonpark.

KENT COUNTY CRICKET CLUB, CANTERBURY

Kent County Cricket Club in Old Dover Road, Canterbury, will hold an open day with more than 50 suppliers ready to discuss your big day on Sunday, January 14. Visitors get a free goody bag along with free entry into a prize draw. Open between 10am and 2.30pm. Details at akentish-wedding.co.uk.

* Planning your wedding? Pick up a copy of the KM Group’s Wedding Day magazine, out soon